Kiama Council is making progress on its night-time economy plans and sportsfields improvements thanks to NSW Government funding secured by newly sworn in State Member for Kiama Katelin McInerney.
Council this week held an Extraordinary Meeting to confirm several grant applications.
Council received a $200,000 grant from the NSW Government, which will assist Council to develop its Night Time Economy Strategy and trial a Special Entertainment Precinct (SEP).
"We thank the NSW Government and our new State member Katelin McInerney and the Minister for Music and the Night-Time Economy, The Hon John Graham for securing this funding – I know the Kiama community is keen to improve our nightlife and this will really give us a boost towards this aim," said Kiama Mayor Cameron McDonald.
Now the deed for funding has been accepted, Council needs to adopt a Night-Time Economy Strategy by November 2026 and submit the request to the NSW Government for the necessary LEP amendments, to enable the Precinct, by March 2027. These timeframes will ensure that in-depth community consultation can occur. The one year Special Entertainment Precinct trial will need to be commencement by June 2027.
Council's Director of Strategies and Communities Ed Paterson said: "Much of the funding will go towards things like noise assessments to ensure we strike the right balance between vibrant and respectful. I also want to stress that the SEP does not mean it's open slather for hospitality and entertainment operators – businesses will still need to follow regulations and obtain any legislated permits. However, for those who already have the correct paperwork in order, it will potentially allow extended opening hours and the ability to increase their offerings."
Council also unanimously voted to proceed with three NSW Government grants for three sporting facilities upgrades, which various sporting groups across the LGA have been invited to apply for. These are:
- Kiama Sports complex - Kiama Netball Courts upgrade ($250,000)
- Bonaira Oval, Kiama – Sports Lights upgrades ($275,000)
- Gerry Emery Reserve, Gerringong – Sprots Lights upgrades ($387,000)
Council has been working with the community groups in preparing their grant applications and, as the landholder of all three venues, Council will project-manage these works.
The next step is to formally apply for the grants by tomorrow's deadline. Once the grants are officially confirmed by the NSW Government, Council can then begin the tender processes for each of the works – tenders will likely go out from early 2026.
